When the bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, Mieko's nearby village was turned into ruins, and her hand was badly injured. Mieko loves to do calligraphy more than anything, but now she can barely hold a paintbrush. And she feels as if she has lost something that she can't paint without-the legendary fifth treasure, beauty in the heart. Then she is sent to live with her grandparents and must go to a new school. But Mieko is brave and eventually learns that time and patience can help with many things, and may even help her find the fifth treasure.
"Coerr has created an intriguing and beautifully told tale whose strong message about friendship, self-confidence, and hope is inspiring." -Booklist, starred review
"A sensitively and beautifully crafted story. This author has created a vivid portrait of courage, drawn from a time that deserves to be remembered." -Publishers Weekly, starred review
"A warm, sensitive, and well-written story with wide appeal." -School Library Journal
